Walking through the doors of Macon Early College I was nervous, afraid, and excited, all of which numerous students experience on their first day of high school. That day was different though, I was not only starting my high school career, but my college one as well. MEC: a place where people earn a two year associates degree and also get a laptop to use during their duration at MEC, which is all people know when they hear the name of that school. What people do not know is that MEC is not just a school; it is a tool, a lesson, and a home.

MEC has prepared me for college. Taking college classes in high school gave me a taste of what to expect when furthering my education. MEC has done more than prepare me for college; it has provided me with a second family and home.

Well, because the U.S. Congress and the Obama Administration couldn't produce a budget deal, automatic spending cuts commenced March 1. This occurrence is known as "sequestration." From what I've learned, this word is rooted in the idea of "following" as in sequel.

We could, I suppose, take that to mean sequestered funds are in the safekeeping of a trusted follower. Of course, as it's Congress we're trusting... so much for that idea.

After all the time and effort put forth by the citizens of Macon and Swain counties, the NCDOT is back again wanting to pave Needmore Road. It seems the public get to have their input, but does anyone listen? We have our say, but we are not heard. Things seem to be settled for a short period, but then it’s right back again. Most of the people do not want to see their history, heritage and our beautiful Godmade mountains and rivers destroyed. Why destroy what is already enjoyed the way it is?

In the early 1900s, Needmore was purchased to make way for a dam. The dam never materialized, so in 2003, it was designated as a wildlife sanctuary. As people discovered its beauty and diversity, more and more people came. Now the uniqueness that it was created for has turned into its worst enemy — everybody wants to come, and they want it changed to suit themselves.

World leadership seems non-existent, the youth of today seems desperate for answers, and our economies are crumbling before us. Everything around us appears darker than it ever has. It’s as though we're in a dark corner looking at a distant narrow window, looking for a brighter light and a lasting hope.

Many are looking and searching but the focus can become clouded by the unending noise modern society spills forth, just as in the beginning of the drug and sexual culture that is still present today. We claimed we were wiser and more intelligent than those before us, all we seek is “freedom,” and where has this gotten us?

Are our personal relationships and the peace we sought with each other any better for this?